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Types of Motorcycle Helmets: Why Choose a Full-Face Helmet?
What is a full-face helmet and why do we call this the safest type of motorcycle helmet?
What is a full-face helmet and why is it the safest helmet?
A full-face helmet is a helmet that protects your entire face. The helmet shell is made in one piece and the helmet has a fixed chin. The fixed chin increases safety, makes the helmet lighter, and reduces wind noise. Unlike a modular helmet, full-face helmets do not have a modular chin piece. It is the safest motorcycle helmet you can buy.
Full-face helmets for daily use
The standard full-face helmet is designed for use on public roads. They are equipped with an easy-to-handle micrometric closure, making it possible to close and open the helmet with gloves on. The integrated sun visor is practical and can be operated on most helmets with a switch or slider that is incorporated on the side of the helmet. This way, you don’t have to stop to put on sunglasses when the sun is low. This sun visor naturally adds some extra weight. These helmets are aimed at the everyday road user who prefers convenience.
Full-face helmets for racing on circuit
Anyone who wants to race needs a full-face helmet that is as light as possible, remains stable at high speeds, and above all, can be used on the track.
Recreational riding on circuit:
- ECE or FIM approved
- Equipped with double D-closure
Additional requirements for official races
- Quick release cheek pads
- Visor with closure
To keep the helmet light, you can omit the sun visor. Opt for a helmet shell that combines fiberglass and/or carbon to keep the whole thing light. These extra strong helmet shells allow more room for the EPS liner, making them even safer than a polycarbonate helmet, especially at high speeds. Spoilers on the helmet (and the visor) provide extra stability, keeping the helmet comfortable at high speeds.
An ECE- or FIM-homologated helmet
The helmet must comply with specific safety standards, such as the ECE or FIM homologation. These standards ensure that the helmet can withstand a certain impact and is suitable for use at high speeds. For a day on the track, an ECE approved helmet with a double D-ring closure is sufficient. In MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3, FIM homologation is mandatory.
Double D-ring
A double D-ring closure is the safest closure. Many racing organizations require a double D-ring closure, to ensure that the helmet remains safe and secure on the rider’s head. Of all possible closures used in a motorcycle helmet, the traditional D-ring closure has repeatedly proven to withstand the most forces. For this reason, only helmets with D-rings are allowed.
Quick release cheek pads
The cheek pads must be equipped with an emergency system, recognizable by a general marking method, such as a red band or label. This makes it easy for emergency services to remove the helmet by pulling the cheek pads out of the helmet, without additional injury to the neck.
Visor with Closure
A full visor that can be locked in a closed position is often required to protect the rider’s face from wind and debris in case of potential impact. In FIM homologation, the visor must remain closed during certain impact tests, to ensure that the face is not exposed to shards after an initial impact. For this reason, most helmet manufacturers have added a visor lock or locking function to their helmets.
Find your perfect full-face helmet
With the help of the links below, you can quickly choose a helmet to your liking.
- Full-face helmets with ECE 22.06 approval, sun visor and micrometric closure
- Full-face helmets with ECE 22.06 approval, sun visor and double D-ring closure
- Full-face helmets with ECE 22.06 approval and double D-ring closure
- Full-face helmets with FIM approval
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Nathan is our webshop employee who is ready with advice and assistance to help customers. When he is not answering customer questions, he writes helpful texts and blogs for the RAD site.